Swaddling is the practice of wrapping a baby snugly in a lightweight blanket or cloth, which requires specific safety precautions to avoid overheating and hip problems.
Swaddling involves wrapping a baby securely in a thin fabric to restrict limb movement. The Lullaby Trust advises using lightweight materials such as thin muslin or thin cot sheets, keeping the baby's head uncovered, and ensuring the wrap is "gently but securely" applied so that "the fabric can't come apart or undone." Swaddles should not extend above the shoulders, to prevent any risk of covering the face.
What are the safe swaddling requirements?
The Lullaby Trust specifies that swaddled babies should always be placed on their back to sleep — "The safest sleeping position for a baby is on their back — whether they're swaddled or not." The swaddle must be kept looser around the hips: "Keep swaddles looser around the hips to allow for natural movement. If they are too tight, this can cause hip problems, known as developmental dysplasia of the hip." Indoor hats must be removed, as these can cause overheating, and the recommended room temperature of 16–20°C applies regardless of swaddling.
When should swaddling stop?
The Lullaby Trust advises stopping swaddling with arms inside the wrap as soon as a baby shows signs of rolling. Once a baby can roll, being swaddled with restricted arms poses a risk of becoming trapped face-down and being unable to use the arms to reposition. The Lullaby Trust also states that swaddling should never occur during bed-sharing, or when a baby has an infection or fever.
What does the NHS say about swaddling and co-sleeping?
The NHS advises that parents should "not swaddle your baby" when co-sleeping, recommending baby sleeping bags as a safer alternative in that context. Weighted swaddles, blankets, and sleeping bags are specifically not recommended by The Lullaby Trust for babies under one year because of the risk of overheating and head covering.
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